The bill, co-authored by Republican Assemblyman Marc Steinorth of Rancho Cucamonga, states bystanders are not liable for property damage or trespassing claims if they rescue an animal from a locked vehicle. They could only break in if they've called authorities and believe the animal is in imminent danger.

They must turn the animal over to responding law enforcement or animal control officers.

"The Right to Rescue Act will save lives," Steinorth said in a statement. "In an emergency, good Samaritans should be confident that they won't be sued for taking heroic actions to rescue a pet. We hope this never has to happen; this effort is also about spreading awareness of the danger of hot cars, and that leaving your pet in harmful conditions is already illegal."

The California Federation of Dog Clubs opposes the legislation. The organization says a rescuer could risk being bitten or may inadvertently allow a dog to escape.